System variables are not saved in AutoCAD

Autodesk Support

Aug 12, 2024

Products and versions covered

Issue:

After changing a system variable (for example, HIGHLIGHT, SAVETIME, etc) to a specific value in AutoCAD, the setting is reset to default after restarting the program.

Causes:

Not all system variables are permanently saved.

Solution:

Check Product Help

  1. Look up the system variable in the AutoCAD Help to see if it is saved or not.
  2. Type the variable on the command line.
  3. Press F1 before pressing Enter.
  4. The Help page for the variable will open.


Use the Express Tool System Variable Editor:

  1. On the command line in AutoCAD, type SYSVDLG.
  2.  Search for the system variable to see if it is saved (i.e., registry, drawing, not saved):
System Variables window
 
Note: Express Tools are not supported or included with AutoCAD LT.

Use the System Variable Monitor

Add the variable(s) in question into the System Variable Monitor (SYSVARMONITOR) so that users will be alerted any time that the value changes from the preferred setting.
  1. Inside the System Variable Monitor dialog, check the checkbox to "Enable balloon notification" and then click the Edit List button.
  2. Add the desired variables from the left side onto the right side and click OK.
  3. Ensure that the Preferred column shows your chosen value for the monitored variables, then click OK.
 

Products:

AutoCAD for Mac; AutoCAD LT for Mac; AutoCAD Products;

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